TILLAPAUGH, Lyle Melvin
July 5, 1927 – October 31, 2014
It is with profound sadness that we announce Lyle’s passing on October 31, 2014. Lyle will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 65 years, Jean, their five children, Sandy (Jim) Robertson, Don (Inger), Bruce (Elizabeth), Brian and Rick (Colleen), 9 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren and many other wonderful friends and family. Lyle was predeceased by his parents, Jack and Edna, his brother, Alden, his sister, Norah and his daughter in law, Valerie Funk.
Lyle was born on a farm at Hamlin, Alberta, where the family lived until moving to Armstrong, BC in 1941. He graduated from high school in 1945 and in 1947 Lyle joined the Royal Canadian Navy where he served proudly for 30 years. On his first night “ashore” in Victoria he met Jean Corner at a dance. She became the love of his life and they were married in 1949. After the navy, Lyle was employed by the Nanaimo School Board, retiring in 1987.
Lyle was inspirational to all who knew him, especially his family with whom he held a special bond and they will all miss him dearly. He had a quick wit and impish sense of humour. Lyle was an avid outdoorsman and passed on his love of camping and fishing to all his kids and grandchildren. He also showed no mercy when playing cards!
A celebration of Lyle’s life will be held November 22 from 1:00-3:00 pm in Lantzville at the Royal Canadian Legion Seaview Centennial Branch 257 (7227 Lantzville Road).
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to a charity of your choice in Lyle’s memory.